These air fryer boneless chicken thighs are fast, forgiving, and reliable. They cook evenly, stay juicy, and get caramelized edges without marinating or advance prep.
Why this recipe works
A lot of air fryer chicken thigh recipes land in one of two camps: dry, or bland. This one avoids both by doing a few small things on purpose.
- Boneless thighs cook evenly and stay juicy in the air fryer
- We add oil before the seasoning for better browning and flavor coverage
- A small amount of brown sugar promotes caramelization without sweetness
- Temperature-guided cooking time prevents overcooking/drying out, and a short rest before serving keeps the juices locked in
This is a weeknight dinner you can pull off even when you’re tired, distracted, or cooking in a rush!
Printable Recipe Card
Ingredients
- 1.5-2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs ((about 6 thighs))
- 2 tablespoons oil (vegetable or olive oil for cooking)
- ½ tablespoon light brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground paprika (smoked or regular)
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme (or Italian seasoning)
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Tips
- Letting the chicken sit out for 10–15 minutes before cooking helps it cook more evenly. It doesn’t have to be perfect — just not fridge-cold.
- Don’t crowd the air fryer basket. Space is what gives you crisp edges instead of steamed chicken.
- Keep leftovers in the fridge for up to 2 days, reheat in the air fryer at 350°F until steaming hot all the way through.
Instructions
- Prep:Get your ingredients ready.
- Prep the chicken:Pat chicken thighs dry with paper towels. Place in a large bowl and toss with oil.Note: Starting with oil helps the seasoning coat evenly and promotes browning.1.5-2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs, 2 tablespoons oil
- Season:In a small bowl, whisk together brown sugar and all spices. Rub evenly over chicken thighs.½ tablespoon light brown sugar, 1 teaspoon ground paprika, ½ teaspoon garlic powder, ½ teaspoon onion powder, ½ teaspoon dried thyme, ½ teaspoon salt, ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- Preheat air fryer:Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (use 400°F for crispier edges). Arrange chicken in a single layer in the basket, leaving space between pieces.Note: Don’t crowd the air fryer basket. Space is what gives you crisp edges instead of steamed chicken. Air fry in batches if needed.
- Air fry:Air fry for 12–15 minutes until chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F and edges are golden and caramelized. Note: If cooking at 400°F, check closer to the 12-minute mark to avoid overcooking.
- Rest and serve:Let chicken rest for 3–5 minutes before slicing or serving. Spoon any juices from the basket over the top for extra flavor.
Air Fryer Boneless Chicken Thighs
make your kitchen smell like home?Air Fryer Boneless Chicken Thighs FAQs
Technically yes, but boneless is the way to go for speed and even cooking in the air fryer. Either way, I do have a recipe for bone-in air fryer chicken thighs as well!
Totally. This spice rub is herby, and just-right savory, but feel free to riff. Cajun blend? Go for it. Taco night? Add chili powder and cumin. Just keep the oil + rub method — it’s what works best here.
A little honey or maple syrup can pinch-hit, but I’m telling you — brown sugar is the key to that caramelized, flavor-packed crust. Don’t skip it unless you absolutely have to.
Season the chicken up to a day ahead and stash it in the fridge — just pull it out 20–30 minutes before air frying so it’s not fridge-cold. That’s how you get even cooking and max juiciness.
Use an instant-read thermometer and pull at 165°F. Visually, the edges should be browned and the juices should run clear.
Most often it’s overcrowding. Cook in a single layer with space between pieces, and consider 400°F for the last few minutes if your air fryer runs cool.
How to serve
These chicken thighs are easy and flexible, so they work with most simple side dishes.
- Fast carbs:
Buttered noodles, lemon rice, mashed potatoes, creamy orzo - Easy vegetables:
Roasted broccoli, sautéed green beans, roasted carrots - Something fresh:
A simple green salad with lemon vinaigrette - Optional dip (if you feel like it):
Chipotle mayo, yogurt ranch or dill dip
Ellin Smith says
Very tasty…This worked exactly as written, thanks! I’ve also shared this to a friend who is new to air frying.
Nora says
I’m so happy to hear, Ellin! And thank you so much for sharing it with your friend!